Fashion fans go wild as 90s split pants return to M&S in time for summer – and shoppers say they’re super flattering

THEY were popular in the 90s, but now it looks like capri pants are back in fashion.

Sitting waist-high, thigh-hugging and cutting just below the knee – the split pant that was previously worn with kitten heels and flats – has now returned to the shelves.

4

4

4

4

Also known as drug dealers, short, tight pants are back on our fashion radar — and while many hated them in the early 2000s, it looks like fashion fans are overjoyed.

And if you want to pick up a pair on a budget, look no further than M&S.

The M&S Ireland store took to its official TikTok account to give shoppers an up-close look at the new pants.

In a clip posted with the caption ‘Want to style our capri pants? We’ve got you covered’, we saw content creator Molly McKeever model the new black pants, leaving many totally stunned.

The fashion fan styled the incredibly versatile Cotton blend slim fit cropped pantswhich cost just £25, two ways.

She said: “So as you all know, Capri-style pants are back in fashion in 2024, so I wanted to style them in two ways.

“I will first choose a very comfortable and casual daytime look, combining it with a cardigan, a headband and some flats.

“I would wear this to brunch, or because the pants are quite formal, I think you could wear this to The office also.

“The second look I’m going for is a little more chic for evening, so I paired it with this linen vest, flats again, and I feel like this look is a little more elevated and perfect for date night this summer.”

Although Molly wore black pants, they are available in six other colors – soft white, pale yellow, sand, pinkmarine and amethyst.

There are four different leg lengths to choose from – extra short, short/small, regular and long.

Sizes range from 6 to 24, making these pants perfect for a variety of body shapes.

The pants are made with a little stretch for a comfortable feel.

They have a secure hook-and-loop hem and flattering high-waist zip closure, and dart details create a stylish shape at the front, while side pockets add a practical finish.

Hottest trends for spring/summer 2024

Fabulous fashion editor Clemmie Fieldsend shared the biggest trends on the high street and runway this spring/summer.

SHORTS

I know, shorts for the summer. Innovative. But you’ll see them everywhere this year, from micro hotpants to long pants, denim shorts styles to tailoring and everything in between, they’re a must-have for any occasion.

WHITE

White often goes hand in hand with summer holidays, but whether you’re in the UK or abroad, you’ll see plenty of head-to-toe white looks.

The street is already a white wash with the trend including shoes and accessories.

HIGH SHINE

Whether metallic or sequins, for 2024 glitter isn’t just for Christmas.
Expect to see shimmery looks at festivals, weddings, or even a barbecue in your neighbor’s back garden, paired with bright blocks or simple whites.

LOOSE FUNDS

Baggy, baggy pants dominated our wardrobes from fall through winter, but as we head into the warmer months, expect baggy pants.
From cool cotton to lightweight linen, flowy pants should have a firm place in your wardrobe.

BOMBS

Ballet flats and Mary Janes have been making their way back into our good books for a while now, but for summer they feel less ballerina and more beach-ready.

Woven styles and knitted textures are hot on the runways and streets, think of the 2024 jelly shoe.

GO GIRL

All things romantic and feminine are in for spring with sheer fabrics, pastel shades of blue, yellow and pink dominating the runway. Adorned with bows, lace or flowers, most looks should have a hyper ‘feminine’ element.

The social media clip, posted under the username @brandsandspencerirlIt clearly left many speechless as it quickly racked up 110,200 views.

And not only were social media users impressed by the capri pants, but many M&S shoppers took to the site to share their reviews of the new pants.

Now I have eight/nine pairs in total. I love them

Online buyer

Capri pants have an average rating of 4.3 out of five, with more than 100 reviews.

According to buyers, the stylish short pants, made from a cotton blend, fit true to size.

Not only have fashionistas hailed them as “comfortable” and “flattering,” but many have even described them as a “wardrobe staple.”

BUYERS’ DELUSIONS

One person said: “I love these pants, my second pair. They fit really well, I bought them for my vacation and they are extremely comfortable.”

Smart and comfortable – these are a wardrobe staple for me

Online buyer

Another added: “I have bought many similar pairs over the last few years, in various colors.

“This year I wanted another white pair (because they go with everything) and this year the amethyst pair (a color you hadn’t done yet).

Why everyone is loving M&S

Deputy fashion editor Abby McHale revealed to Fabulous why M&S is the store of the moment. She explained:

“M&S has really pulled out all the stops this season, there are so many great products to get excited about.

“A brand that was once known for its ‘slouchy fashion’, that notion is long gone and is now one of the leading women’s high street fashion stores.

“Their handbag line in particular is super strong, with sales up 170% over plan, with many more naïve designers at just a fraction of the price.

“The brand is now also number 1 in style perception, compared to third place last year, this comes from a very strong design team focused on modernizing the brand, not just taking into account the appearance of parts, but as easy to use as well.

“Price is also an important factor as you can get many good quality pieces for under £30.

“After giving you a sneak peek at the upcoming collection, there are plenty of other amazing pieces releasing in the coming months for you to keep an eye on.

“Think leopard print dresses, colorful slips, embroidered boho jackets, plus lots of amazing swimwear and accessories, as well as great wardrobe staples that will last year after year.”

“I now have eight/nine pairs in total. I love them. They fit very well and the material is beautiful and doesn’t wrinkle.”

A third commented: “Lovely style, flattering, comfortable, good length.”

Meanwhile, someone else smiled: “Smart and comfortable – these are a wardrobe staple for me.”

Fabulous will pay for your exclusive stories. Just send an email: fabulousdigital@the-sun.co.uk and put EXCLUSIVE in the subject line.